Ingredients
→ For the Patties
2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
→ For the Toppings
8 slices thick-cut bacon
8 slices cheddar cheese
4 brioche burger buns, sliced and toasted
2 tablespoons butter
1 medium red onion, sliced
1 large tomato, sliced
Lettuce leaves
Pickles
→ For the Burger Sauce
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon pickle juice
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Steps
Arrange bacon slices in a cold skillet and place over medium heat. Cook until fat renders and bacon is crisp, about 4 to 6 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Combine ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Gently mix until just combined. Divide into 4 equal portions, form into patties about 3/4 inch thick, and create a shallow indent in the center of each.
Heat a grill or heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Place patties onto the hot surface and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side for medium doneness. During the final minute, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty and cover to melt.
Spread butter on the cut sides of brioche buns. Place buns, buttered side down, on a skillet or grill until golden and toasted.
Spread burger sauce on both bun halves. On the bottom bun, layer lettuce, sliced tomato, and pickles. Add the cheese-topped beef patty, then top with crispy bacon and red onion slices. Cap with the top bun and apply gentle pressure to set.
Notes
- For evenly cooked bacon, bake on a wire rack set over a sheet pan at 400°F for 15 to 18 minutes.